Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on President Bola Tinubu to reduce the price of petrol to N300 per litre to allow Nigerians to celebrate the festive season in comfort. Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday, George emphasized the importance of the festive months of December and January, stating that reducing fuel prices would significantly alleviate the economic strain on Nigerians.
According to George, the reduction should be implemented immediately, with petrol prices lowered to N300 per litre by mid-December and extended until the end of January. He argued that this move would bring widespread joy across the country, making it a gift to the Nigerian people, especially during a time of year that is universally significant across cultures and religions. George added that the government could absorb the losses resulting from this price cut, pointing to the example of the First Lady’s donation of N1 billion to a university as evidence that the government could afford such a measure.
In his plea for a more affordable fuel price, George stressed that the government’s decision would help reduce the cost of goods and services across the country, bringing much-needed relief to Nigerian households. He further stated that the Minister of Petroleum should take action to ensure that the price cuts reach all Nigerians, as it would bring about happiness and stability during the festive period.
Shifting focus to his party, George acknowledged the current challenges facing the PDP but reassured members that the party would overcome them ahead of the 2027 elections. He emphasized the importance of unity within the party, asserting that individual ambitions should not take precedence over the collective goals of the party. Reflecting on the founding principles of the PDP, George highlighted the importance of fairness, justice, and equity, recalling the party’s constitutional provisions for zoning and rotation of leadership positions.
He also lamented the internal manipulations that have led to discord within the PDP, particularly criticizing the actions of some members whose personal ambitions have overshadowed the party’s core values. George pointed to the manipulation of party procedures as a key factor contributing to the current crisis, expressing his hope that the party could address these issues and return to its foundational principles of justice and unity.
Gathered by: Onoro Promise Edesiri